Where to Go When You’d Rather Hear Wind Than Chatter
Let’s be honest — some UK mountains are getting a bit too popular. While classics like Snowdon and Ben Nevis have their charm, sometimes you want a hike that doesn’t start with squeezing into a packed car park at 6am.
If you’re craving solitude, raw terrain, and summits that don’t involve waiting in line for a trig-point selfie, these six peak-bagging routes are for you. Each one offers wild scenery and serious hill cred — just without the constant foot traffic.
1. Ben Klibreck – Far North Sutherland
- Height: 962m
- Route Length: ~11km
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Why it’s quiet: It’s remote — really remote. Far north of Lairg, and hours from the central belt.
- Why it’s worth it: Expansive views over the Flow Country and distant Ben Hope. A true taste of Scotland’s last wild places.
- Top tip: Wild camp nearby and combine with Ben Hope for a full Far North weekend.
2. Sgùrr na Banachdich – Isle of Skye (Cuillin Ridge)
- Height: 965m
- Route Length: ~8km (scrambling involved)
- Time: 4–5.5 hours
- Why it’s quiet: Everyone’s queuing for the Inaccessible Pinnacle — this route flies under the radar.
- Why it’s worth it: It’s one of the easiest Cuillin Munros, with wild ridge drama and top-tier views over Loch Coruisk.
- Top tip: Start early for the best light — and bring your hands for the scramble.
3. Arenig Fawr – Snowdonia, Wales
- Height: 854m
- Route Length: ~11km
- Time: 4–5.5 hours
- Why it’s quiet: Overshadowed by the big names like Snowdon and Tryfan
- Why it’s worth it: Mountain lakes, quiet ridges, and a true feeling of isolation. You might not see another soul all day.
- Top tip: Bring your OS map — paths fade fast, but the route’s easy to follow with nav confidence.
4. The Cheviot via Scald Hill – Northumberland
- Height: 815m
- Route Length: ~14km
- Time: 4.5–6 hours
- Why it’s quiet: Tucked away in England’s far northeast, and often overlooked
- Why it’s worth it: Underrated moorland drama and huge skies — with a summit that feels worlds away from the Lakes
- Top tip: Go midweek for total solitude and pair it with Hedgehope Hill if you’ve got gas in the tank
5. Beinn a’ Bhùird – Cairngorms
- Height: 1,197m
- Route Length: ~18km (linear or circular)
- Time: 5.5–6 hours
- Why it’s quiet: Deep in the Cairngorms — longer access deters the casual crowd
- Why it’s worth it: One of the most stunning plateaus in Scotland, with ancient glens and hidden coires
- Top tip: Mountain bike the approach track to save time and energy on the return
6. Mullach Clach a’ Bhlàir – Glen Feshie, Cairngorms
- Height: 1,019m
- Route Length: ~16km
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Why it’s quiet: There’s no road access deep into Glen Feshie — only dedicated walkers make it out here
- Why it’s worth it: Vast landscapes, rewilded forests, and a Munro that feels properly earned
- Top tip: Combine with a dip in the River Feshie — cold but unbeatable on a hot day
Final Thoughts
If you’re chasing summits but also chasing stillness, these routes are the sweet spot. Less traffic, more wildlife. Fewer voices, more wind in the heather.
Photo by Stephen Arnold on Unsplash
